By default, this unexpectedly ended up being my go-to daily bag for several months. It's been stuffed to capacity with almost everything I had to carry, including, but not limited to, outerwear, lunch, groceries, laptop, iPad, a Bose speaker, and combinations thereof. My shoulders did not chafe nor rub or irritate while walking and I did not get any bruising on my hips. I know some will immediately dismiss my review simply because I bought this pack at WalMart. I've been attempting to drop weight for the past several years, mostly because my knees can't handle it. My shelters have gotten lighter as have my sleeping system — next in line for a diet was my carry system. Funds, however, were non existent and my CFO (i.e. my wife) wouldn't increase my discretionary fund. We hike anywhere from 3 to 4 miles at a time up to 7 miles with a goal of a 10-mile round trip day hike. Sometimes it’s a single trail or we combine multiple trails at a state park. During these longer hikes I found it useful to have a large hiking bag and not just a school backpack. Generally, you get what you pay for when you purchase cheap hiking gear. At the bottom, I keep a towel, first aid kit, and few other items, I may need. The easy access pockets (really just give you access to the main pack) I keep an extra pair of knee sleeves and socks. With access to the Ozark Trail available year-round, hikers will need to prepare differently for each season. Ozark springs see a lot of rain and varied temperatures; Ozark summers tend to be hot, muggy, and wet; Ozark winters can drop below freezing. Wet weather is common to the Ozark climate, especially in late spring through summer, and fosters a breeding ground for bugs, mosquitos, and ticks. Bring enough water for your trip or a way to purify water to make it safe to drink. Many of the creeks and streams look crystal clear, but it’s still smart to make sure any impurities are removed with pumps or tablets before drinking. Whether you’re planning an epic thru-hike or an out-and-back weekend excursion, this guide will help you get started on your Missouri adventure. Find the best backpack for your next outdoor adventure using our independent reviews and ratings. Just be prepared to face changing weather conditions out in the wilderness. Browse Ozark Trail's top-rated backpacks and more. It's also small enough that it wasn't inconvenient for them to have it with them everyday. The pack size and weight is good for all my day hiking to any shower. I'm not sure if it is durable enough to hold any of my camera equipment. This pack will make great for a day at the beach with an extra change of clothes, flip flops, keys, tanning oil, towel and a iPod or stuff your lightweight sleeping bag and a jacket. This pack has a lot of extra storage pockets for organization of your gear. Has a hip belt to displace the load off your shoulders. Includes a place to connect your hydration bladder.